Halloween Horror Nights 26 Review and Guide

I'm back! After a little hiatus I'm so excited to share my experience from Halloween Horror Nights 26! By now you know I love Orlando (wassup Annual Passholders!) and Halloween so this is the perfect match! I have gone in previous years but I think this was one of the best especially coming off a stellar anniversary year. Since all the houses seemed legit we decided to purchase the R.I.P Tour (so spooky sounding.) This guided tour takes you through all nine houses (no waiting in line), all five scare zones, special seating for Bill and Ted's Excellent Halloween Adventure show, two attractions (plus express passes for the rest of the night on participating attractions) and snacks/beverage stations (some are free but alcohol is not). Let me say the experience was AMAZING!

Our tour was scheduled at 7:00pm (it last about 4 1/2 hours) so we got to the park around 6:15 and since we were staying at a on site hotel it was a breeze since we went thru security checks before entering the park.

TIP: There are ways to enter the park and event early through special "holding areas" designated in the park. This is available to ALL attendees of Horror Nights you just have to have your ticket to the event. Read about how to do so here!

We checked in for the tour to be permitted inside and were told to meet at Café La Bamba at 6:30 for food and drinks before our tour departed. It was starting to be a real..."scream" lol I know I'm funny guys! Jk.

Dress: Unique Vintage
 

TIP:  Ok, so for those of you not doing the tour this is for you. Look at the above map and get yourself familiar with the houses and locations, I will give you a big tip...start at the back of the park (unless you are doing early access in that case go to whichever houses are open at that time). This means when you enter go to the right!

As we waited to go into La Bamba's we realized it was the perfect time to take some pics since it was still light out. The closest scare zone was Vamp 55 and wow I loved this zone!! The actors were so into their roles as 1950's style greasers, football players, cheerleaders and prom queens but with some umm bite. It was like homecoming gone way wrong!
 

It was finally time to check in and as we waited inside there was food like chicken masala, cupcakes, specialty desserts as well as a cash bar and even some characters from the houses for photo ops! The tour got started right on time and Jerod our guide was the BEST! Our group was also really fun and it felt like we had made new friends by the end of the night but I know you guys want to know about the houses!

 

HOUSE RATINGS

 

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: 8/10

I was the most apprehensive about this one. I love scary movies but Leatherface (the Texas wielding maniac who wears people's skin over his face) has always terrified me. Leatherface is front and center along with his whole family. The actors playing Leatherface are some BIG dudes they are super intimidating and scary. Overall I really liked this house and the décor was set up just like the film, you felt like you were there! Watch out at the end as you exit...

American Horror Story: 10/10

Obsessed. That's really all I can say. It is one of the longest houses in history with 29 scenes and it is amazing. Talk about stepping into TV, this is a perfect example. The house takes you through Season 1 with Murder House (latex man!), Season 3 with Freak Show (Twisty!) and Season 5 Hotel (Lady Gaga!). If you are fan of the show you will recognize so many cool details and scenes from the show and even if you aren't it delivers the scares! Twisty makes numerous appearances. You've been warned.
 

The Walking Dead: 9/10

I know some HHN fans are a little apprehensive about this maze since this is pretty much a mainstay now each year. This house was great! I also really love the show (last night's episode had me stressed) but what was done for the house this year is kind of like a "best of" from the past few years. So a lot of favorite moments from the last few years of Walking Dead houses are in here. I really enjoyed it and my friend who doesn't like the show even said it was a really cool house and unlike last year it delivers some big scares!

The Exorcist: 8/10

Creepy, creepy, creepy! This house is unique because the film itself essentially take's place in a room so Universal did a great job at navigating you through the famous scenes in a house but is designed like a room (hope that makes sense!). The house is uncomfortable it's warm, you smell things (hello vomit scene), you can feel things as you walk through, and the actresses playing possessed Reagan are dead on. Cool animatronics and a good house but it felt good to get out!

Halloween: Hell Comes to Haddonfield: 10/10

This may be my favorite house! There are so many Michael Myers!! Like one at every corner. This house is a direct sequel to the first film and house in fact you start the maze by entering Laurie's closet from the first film and end at the hospital in the second one. This house was amazing, the props, actors, detailing, all of it was there! Perfect house in my opinion!

Krampus: 9/10

I was actually super pumped about this house since the film was so creepy fun! Krampus is no Santa and resembles more of a large goat creature (Google it) and he is always lurking in this house (don't forget to look up!) as well as an army of evil toys, creepy large dolls, and other sinister holiday elves trying to ruin the holiday. Please look at the little gingerbread men on the kitchen table! Unique house!

Lunatic's Playground 3D- You Won't Stand a Chance: 6/10

The icon of this year's event is Chance, a demented female clown (think Harley Quinn) who's boyfriend Jack the Clown (another famous icon in previous years) has gone away and left Chance to run the show on her own. She has gained lots of followers, her maniacs, (they are in a mental institute) have taken over the asylum. Guards are strung up, clown faces are everywhere and Chance is at the center of it all. It's not a bad house and it's not really a good house in my opinion. I also hate 3D. Very loud and neon. I was expecting a lot more since she is the icon of the event and was disappointed. Could have been really cool but not enough storyline. Again, not bad just not on par with the rest of the houses!

Ghost Town: The Curse of Lightning Gulch: 9/10

I was not expecting to get the most scares here! I was genuinely spooked several times in this house! Basically this house takes place in the old west during the gold rush. These ghosts of the past dressed in western gear and warning you not to take their gold get more violent and scary as you get closer to the gold. It's a really cool and unique house! Great original!

Tomb of the Ancients: 9/10

The past has come back in these ancient ruins and you come face to face with some pretty scary creatures. Think mutants. Really awesome jungle set and such a well designed details! You are so busy looking around at everything the actors know how to get your attention. The creature at the end is must-see!

Also, not a house but don't miss Bill and Ted's Excellent Halloween Adventure show! It was great this year and you will love all the pop culture references plus it's an election year!
 

Even if you don't do any of the houses you aren't safe from creepy fisherman, banshees, anarchists, and Chance herself. There are designated scare zones in the park, five to be exact, and you must walk through them to get to other areas of the park. There are also chainsaws everywhere! Check out all the scare zone themes here! Vamp '55 and Survive or Die Apocalypse were my personal favorites!
 

Tip: There will be long lines at all of the houses especially this weekend and on Halloween. If you want to experience all of the houses I highly recommend the RIP Tour or if that is out of your budget then try to purchase the Express Pass which should help you see all the houses. Now if you are going without either one, which is very do-able, you should go on a Wednesday (least crowded) or Thursday (second least crowded) or even go next weekend (November 4th or 5th). They have extended due to popularity and the hurricane.

Pick the houses that are your must-do's, a top three if you will, lines reach up to 100-120 minutes and sometimes more depending on the house/date so plan accordingly! When planning a trip we always look at what to spend money on and we think it's better to do things like the RIP tour, express passes and a covenant hotel. Others prefer to spend on expensive dinners, first class tickets and so on. I say go with what will get the most bang for your buck and that was experiencing all that Halloween Horror Nights had to offer. Again just our personal preference!
 

 

To find out how you can buy your tickets to the event check here and to find scheduling, info and anything else you might need to know then go to the official website!

I highly recommend the event and yes, it is for mature audiences  so think twice about taking the kiddos. Also, be respectful of the actors, don't hit, touch, do anything to harm them, this is all for fun. If you don't like scary movies, gore or anything horror related then this may not be the event for you. However, if you get in the mindset that it's all just part of the event and a show, you will have a fantastic time! Go ahead and take a Chance! **evil laughter** ...see what I did there?
 

Happy Travels!

xoxo,

 

New Posts Coming Soon and Revamp!

Hey everyone!

I know it's been a hot minute since I've posted but I've just been so busy with work and school that I haven't had the time to devote to writing posts but don't worry I'm catching up soon and I'm doing a little revamp! Expect to see some new video content...aka I'm about to start "Vlogging"! Be on the lookout for new details and while I'll still be doing written pieces expect a lot more videos!

Keep tuning in :)

xoxo,

Laurel💋

Sidewalk Film Festival 2016

 

This past weekend was one for the books! I actually think I need a weekend to recover from this one. Not only did I get to see Drake in ATL on Friday night (amazing!) but Atlanta was only a short visit and it was back to Bham since Saturday and Sunday were booked up for the 18th annual Sidewalk Film Festival! As you may know I love movies and this is the perfect way to see indies, local and even some I probably would never check out if they weren't at the festival!

Tickets

 

This was my second year at Sidewalk and like last year I opted for the VIP Pass, it can get pricy as the festival gets closer so I recommend purchasing yours earlier rather than later. They also have weekend passes as well as single day passes you can purchase as well. I like VIP because it guarantees you get into each film, front of the line access, free snacks, VIP lounge and is an overall good deal.  For the least expensive price on any tickets be sure to buy early!

 

Getting Around

 

Everything is pretty much within walking distance of each other, there are several venues to watch each film so check your program and see which spots you will be in. I always like to park in the lot across from the Alabama Theater, it cost $10 but it is very convenient plus safe! There are signs along the way to direct you and if you don't feel like walking to the venues there are trams and bicycles for you free of charge. We felt safe the entire weekend and there was a good amount of security but as with any bigger city or any event for that matter be aware of your surroundings, pay attention and be smart.

 

VIP Lounge

One cool thing that is included with the VIP pass is the lounge. This year's was really well done! Light snacks since it was super hot outside, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and you got to be in the air condition for a bit if you needed a break from the walking!

Oh and they even had massages! The lovely ladies from the Aveda Institutes South were giving free neck, back and hand massages. Let me tell you the neck massage was a God-send after craning my neck for a few hours at films (I know such a hard life #firstworldproblems) but I have such a bad neck and back from my former cheerleading days that it was heavenly! You also got a card for a free massage at their spa for the future which will definitely be put to use.

 

Films, Food and More

 

When you get your event guide be sure to look it over and start selecting which films are your "must-see" now when you are in a group things can get a bit more complicated. Odds are that not everyone is going to like the same things so I think it's best to compromise and have each person pick at least one film that is their "must". Or you can always split up and meet up before another film, it's up to you! And if all of your group wants to see the same films then snaps to you because you've made you life easy (yay).

 

Film festivals like Sidewalk are the perfect way to see some great documentaries (Chicken People, it's legit a thing), beautiful cinematography (The Love Witch), brilliant style pieces (Cheerleader, maybe my favorite film of the fest), and fantastic indies (the terrific Morris Comes to America). I also love the short films! Especially the horror shorts, it's great seeing lots of film styles in a short time and you get more than one story so you feel like you are experiencing more.

 

If you get hungry there are tons of food trucks (shout out to Big Spoon Creamery and Mimi's Soda) as well as your standard movie theater snacks in each venue! I would recommend brining cash since a lot of the theaters are older so it's easier to pay cash plus with food trucks, theaters, etc. you never know if the system might go down so keep cash handy!

What to Wear

 

You will be sitting down. A lot. You will be walking in the heat a lot of the time in between films so dress comfortably! This is not the time for that form fitting bodycon dress (save that for next weekend) but breezy sundresses, sandals, tees and tennis are my go to! Guys if you are reading just stick with shorts, jeans and tees. Everyone just needs to be comfortable so they can enjoy the movies! And so you can eat your popcorn and milk duds with no remorse or shame.

 

Final Thoughts

Birmingham has come such a long way in the past couple of years and events like Sidewalk are drawing in more people than ever. The event is well priced, unique, and fun for those that live here and those that are traveling just for the festival. Trust me you won't be disappointed! Very well organized, safe, and it offers a bit of a break on an otherwise monotonous August weekend. I highly recommend Sidewalk!

For more information on next year's event click here! Start making your preparations now!

Are there any film festivals in your area? Which ones do I need to visit? Let me know!

Happy Film Watching!

xoxo,

Disney and Universal During Peak Season

Orlando is a prime location for vacation in any season but obviously summer months and holidays are known as peak season. Off season are those months when there isn't much going on (think September, February and April) while peak can draw the crowds (June-August, Christmas, Thanksgiving). I have been to the parks during peaks and while it can be difficult, it can be done!Here are some tips for along the way.

 

Pack Light

 

This is sometimes easier said then done but try and only bring the necessities and preferably in a carry-on. I hate wasting time at the airport waiting on luggage and it can be a huge timesaver to go ahead and have you and your travel parties luggage with you right when you step off the plane. Also, Disney World Resort offers the Magical Express if you are staying at one of their On-Site Resorts meaning they will actually pick up your luggage for you and place it in your room. This is a good service however it does take a lengthy time to reach your destination (unless you are the first stop), if you don't want to waste time or you aren't staying at a Disney resort, I highly suggest renting a car for your stay.

 

 

Flower Crown Ears  Fujifilm Instax Mini 8  Draper James Fedora

Universal Orlando Tip: Stay On Site and Arrive Early for New Attractions

I would recommend hitting up Universal Orlando first before Walt Disney World (if you are even headed to the Mouse) mainly because Universal Orlando has two parks and can be easily traveled in a day and a half. You will definitely want to start out at Diagon Alley at Universal Studios and soak up the atmosphere before taking the Hogwarts express to The Wizzarding World of Harry Potter in Islands of Adventure.

Universal Orlando is comprised of two Theme Parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, you must have a ticket to both parks to experience them both. Both are great in their own ways, Universal Studios is the more classic park and Islands is known for their thrills and coasters. I would also highly recommend staying onsite since you are permitted to enter the park early plus at select resorts (Portofino Bay Resort, Hard Rock Hotel and Royal Pacific Resort) you are given an unlimited Express Pass to enjoy most rides with no wait. The Cabana Bay Resort and new Sapphire Falls Resort offer early entry but no Express Passes, however they are a great deal! My budget pick would be the Cabana Bay Beach Resort and deluxe pick would be the Hard Rock Hotel!

Visit Skull Island: Reign of Kong

 

Ok, this is an all new ride and yes, there will be LONG waits, this attraction is excluded from Express Pass so make it a priority to do this first thing at opening (8am), if you are staying on-site, hang out in the Wizzarding World of Harry Potter or Jurassic Park until about 7:35am then start making your way over to Kong. You will thank me later when you aren't in a 2 hour standby line.

 

Reign of Kong, Diagon Alley, The Wizzarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic Park draw the most crowds. Hit these areas first thing in the morning or come back later and night about 3 hours before closing. If you decide to not stay on-site I would try and budget Express Passes into your ticket plan, you are permitted to the front of the line for shows and bypass lines for most attractions, it can be a real lifesaver on those super crowded day or when you are short on time!

Utilize Quick Service Meals

 

Quick service is exactly how it sounds and can be found at all theme parks including Universal and Disney World. I hate wasting time eating big meals and I just feel like taking a nap afterwards, stick to quick meals or even healthy snacks (I love the fruit bowls!) throughout the day. It's a timesaver and a lot better on your wallet than sit-down restaurants. A list of quick service restaurants can be found here at Universal Orlando and here for Disney World!

 

Take the Time to Visit Disney Springs

 

The new take on "Downtown Disney" is a hip shopping mecca with stores like Free People, Lilly Pulitzer, Kate Spade, Sephora and more! The parks will be super crowded during the middle of the day so I suggest Disney Springs for a little relaxation. Check out a movie, go to one of the many restaurants, shop and just browse around waiting for the crowds to die down at the parks. Yes, they even have s Sprinkles Cupcake ATM!

 

Park Hop Around Disney World

Much like Disney it is essential to arrive early, if you are staying at one of Disney's Resorts take advantage of the Extra Magic Hours. If you have a Park Hopper ticket, meaning you can visit multiple parks in one day, take advantage of it! We love starting off at Hollywood Studios and walking via the Boardwalk to the secret entrance to Epcot right past the Boardwalk Resort.

TIP: The all new Frozen ride and pavilion recently opened and it gets crowded FAST like four hour wait time fast. Do the attraction right as the World Showcase portion of Epcot opens!

 

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

 

You will be moving around a lot, mixing in and out of large crowds and most likely it will be very warm, if you are visiting in the summer it can be downright sweltering. Be sure to listen to your body, drink plenty of water, eat some fruit, have an ice cream and if you feel like you are getting too tired or feel uncomfortable, go back to the hotel for a nap or relax by the pool. Chances are the rest of your party will be feeling the same way. If not? Hello sweet alone time!

 

Stay Late

 

Maybe you just aren't a morning person well that's fine! The night owls can enjoy the extra magic hours as well as late operating hours that are often found during peak seasons. In fact, the Animal Kingdom started for the first time being open past 6pm and that means you can ride favorites such as Expedition Everest and Kilimanjaro Safari at night. The Magic Kingdom is sometimes even open as late as 2am, take advantage of the cooler temps and lighter crowds!

 

Enjoy the Scenery

 

Even when the parks are packed you can still find ways to enjoy yourself. Go on an older attraction with no wait, visit memorable areas of the parks or my favorite, take out the camera (even if it's just your iPhone) and explore the parks. There really is some beautiful scenery throughout the Universal and Disney as silly as that may sound. I could spend an hour or so just taking pics in Diagon Alley or seeing every little detail in the nooks of the Magic Kingdom. Go out there and see what you can find!

 

Have the Best Day Ever

 

In the end, you are on vacation! Have fun and even thought peak seasons can seem a little mad, remember we're all mad here so take your time, enjoy some Butterbeer or a Mickey Ice Cream Bar and do what you're feeling!

 

Happy Travels!

xoxo,

Los Angeles in a Weekend

 

My most recent trip to LA was definitely one for the books! We had the best time taking in the sights and while we were only there for a weekend, we still did so much in the city and I'll show you some of the highlights and what is not to be missed!

Have In-N-Out Burgers

It's no secret my first stop after landing in Cali whether it be Disneyland (Anaheim), San Diego, or hopping off the plane at LAX (no cardigan though, too hot), my first stop is always In-N-Out. These famously trendy and delicious burgers are only found on the West Coast and are as popular with Hollywood celebs as they are with us normal civilians. They are fresh, decently healthy hamburgers (I rarely eat meat so this is always a treat) and French fries, which offer almost a popped texture rather than greasy. You can get your burgers done a variety of ways including the wildly popular "Animal Style" as well as low carb (lettuce instead of bread buns) and even vegan options, that grilled cheese though. There is even a Not So Secret Menu in addition to what you see on the regular options!

 

 Be A Tourist in Hollywood

This is almost like the LA equivalent of a Times Square in NYC. Touristy, historical and come on who doesn't like trying to fit their hands in the handprints outside the famed Chinese Theater. They have tons of film premieres and events that are held weekly inside the theater and we just missed the all new Ghostbusters premiere by a few nights! Luckily the Marshmallow Man was still inflated so not all hope was lost. Try and find your favorite celebrity star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame take cheesy photos and be a total tourist for the day!
 

Have a Drink at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

Located right across the street from the Adobe Theater, you can't miss the old Hollywood haunt, the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. A fun place to stay but one you have to visit and have a drink at the bar just to visit where many Hollywood elites stayed and socialized. Marilyn Monroe loved this hotel and bar, in fact some say they have even seen her ghost, she even has a suite named after her!
 

Visit a Fun Movie Themed Museum

If you are a movie buff like me, LA and Hollywood are the places for you! There are tons of kitschy yet informative museums housing memorabilia from some of your favorite movies. These are especially good bets if you have kids, groups of all ages and anyone who is complaining about it being hot outside. I suggest The Hollywood Museum (the world's largest movie memorabilia museum)  , Madame Tussauds  (for real the wax figures look legit!), and just for fun Ripley's Believe It or Not.
 

 

Have a Milkshake or Early Breakfast at Mel's

I love the film, American Graffiti  so naturally we have to make a stop at the namesake restaurant of the movie. There is a Mel's located right by The Hollywood Museum and it's a good spot for early morning breakfast or late night food plus the prices are great which is always a good thing!
 

Take a Tour of LA by Double Decker Bus

If you are trying to pack everything in then I highly recommend a double decker bus tour such as Starline Tours which allows you to hop on/ hop off at various locations and even takes you to areas all over LA including Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Downtown LA, Beverly Hills and more. Make sure you look over the map and remember which color bus line you need to take and which one will get you back home. This is a lifesaver for those who don't want to drive, take an Uber everywhere or get stuck in LA traffic. The price for an unlimited one day pass is about $47 and worth every penny!

Get all the pricing, locations and more for tours here!
 

Walk Sunset Blvd for Shops During the Day and Live Music at Night

Sunset Boulevard is one of my favorite locations with it's quirky stores (Wildfox Couture!) celeb filled restaurants (keep your eyes peeled around here, endless boutiques and live music joints such as the famed Viper Room and The Roxy this is a can't miss for a day walk or night out during your stay!
 

Search for Hidden Gems in the City

I love finding fun little spots while traveling and we came across some of the cutest spots such as this ultra fun-ultra tiny shop, Pygmy Hippo Shoppe. It also has some really cool wall art on the back of the store, which I'm always on the hunt for! LA has tons of unique spots and you can go to a Nordstrom anytime, look for those really cool boutiques and shops that aren't found everywhere. If you see a place you want to visit while touring take a quick photo or jot down the address in your phone so you can remember!
 

Wander a Weekend Morning at The Grove

You can spend plenty of time at The Grove but on weekend mornings they have a farmer's market along with live music including a concert series at night on select nights mostly in the summer. There are also plenty of shops, dining, trolley rides, movie theater and yes, Sprinkles cupcakes!

Spend Time in Santa Monica

Whether it's to spend some time in the sun or just dip your toes into the Atlantic Ocean, Santa Monica looks right out of a movie. The Santa Monica Pier is home to carnival rides and a boardwalk type atmosphere. There are also finer dining, I recommend The Lobster (you might recognize it from Ocean's 11) as well as boutiques and shops around town as well.  Be sure to have an ice cream float on the pier at Soda Jerks. To reach your hippie haven, don't forget to visit Venice Beach about a 15-20 minute drive away!
 

Find Decorative Wall Art Throughout the City

Self-explanatory but I love finding walls like the one pictured below, great art, quotes and pictures!

Laugh and Sing Along to an Unauthorized Musical at the Rockwell

 

Check out the Rockwell for dinner and a show. Try the yummy drinks and delicious food as you wait and then watch a fantastic performance! Right now there are unauthorized musicals of cult hits Troop Beverly Hills and The Big Lebowski. More recently they had shows on Clueless and Cruel Intentions (yes, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Reese Witherspoon and Selma Blair attended a show together!). The shows are well written with songs you are sure to recognize. Great for adults but may not be suitable for kids.

 

Get ticket info here!

 

Brunch at Bottega Louie

 

Get there early to not only get your hands on their classic Macarons but this downtown LA bakery and restaurant serves up a delicious brunch! We took a quick trip here before we boarded our plane home and yes, the Macarons were just as delicious a few hours later. Tables fill up fast and they don't accept reservations so get there early to avoid a wait! You can just walk into the bakery section and purchase Macarons if you don't have time for a sit down meal or just on the go. Enjoy!

 

Where to Stay?

Loew's Hollywood Hotel

W Hollywood Hotel

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

Hotel Casa Del Mar

Viceroy Santa Monica

The Beverly Hills Hotel

Hilton LA/ Universal City
 

The weather is great year round and with so much to do, Los Angeles is the perfect vacation spot for all ages! Even if you are just there for the weekend, prepare for a whirlwind and get ready for a taste of glamour and sunny skies!

Happy Travels!

xoxo,